For 50 years, Soroptimist International of Valencia has supported women and families in need. For the past 22 years, their mission has focused on raising money for breast cancer patients.
“We wanted to raise funds for woman with breast cancer, whether that would be either screening mammogram or support while their going through treatment or actual treatment itself, so a lot of us have mothers, sisters and some of us have had breast cancer so it’s really neat and dear to all of our hearts,” says Laura Chelser, President of Soroptmist International of Valencia.
Funds raised go to local nonprofits, including the Sheila Veloz Breast Cancer and the Circle of Hope Cancer Center
“So whether that cost is something that you’re gonna need to make a medical co-pay or you just found out you have cancer and you don’t know what the next steps are, Circle of Hope is there for you,” said Debbie Holbrook, Circle of Hope Board Member.
What makes this fundraiser stand out? A fashion show with live models, many of them cancer survivors who walk the runway to raise awareness and money.
“One in every eight women will get breast cancer. Even if it’s not affecting you directly now, it might in the future, and we are here for you,” Chelser says.
In the city known for its generosity, tonight’s event brought hundreds together, showing that in Santa Clarita, no one fights breast cancer alone.
Organizers say their already planning next year’s event and hope to raise even more money for local families battling breast cancer.
